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Diclofenac
Diclofenac sodium tablets are a strong anti-inflammatory medication used to treat pain, swelling, and symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and gout. It is an example of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by preventing the release of inflammatory substances that can cause pain and swelling.
- Effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Relieves pain and reduces swelling and inflammation
Buy Diclofenac Sodium 50mg Tablets Online
Diclofenac is a prescription-only medicine that belongs to the same group of drugs as ibuprofen – nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These are better at reducing pain than over-the-counter medications and have proven to be effective in managing pain and inflammation in gout.
Diclofenac sodium 50mg tablets are most commonly used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, back pain, gout, muscle and joint injuries, and pain after orthopaedic, dental or minor surgery.
You can buy Diclofenac online at Pharmacy Online following a short online consultation with a member of our team.
When to Use Diclofenac Sodium Tablets?
Diclofenac sodium is a highly effective pain relief medicine. As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), it is used to treat inflammatory conditions.
If you experience frequent pain and traditional ibuprofen doesn't offer relief, you may be given Diclofenac Sodium for:
- Arthritis: Pain and inflammation caused by Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis.
- Acute Injuries: Treatment for injuries that impact the muscles and joints.
- Surgery: Pain and inflammation after orthopaedic, dental and minor surgery.
- Gout: Anti-inflammatory medicines are also beneficial to reduce swelling during gout flare-ups.
Age Restrictions for Diclofenac Sodium Tablets
Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets are for adults aged 18 and over and are not suitable for children. However, there are advisory precautions for adults over 65 due to the increased risk factors of gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects.
How to Use Diclofenac Sodium 50mg Tablets?
It's essential to follow the instructions when using Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets to avoid side effects and gastrointestinal symptoms:
- Swallow Whole: Swallow each tablet whole with water, avoiding chewing or crushing them.
- Take With Food: Using NSAIDs without food can irritate your stomach. Use them with a meal or a glass of milk to avoid irritation.
- Post-Dose: After taking the tablets, avoid lying down for at least 15 minutes. This prevents irritation.
Diclofenac Dosage
The amount of Diclofenac you take depends on the condition you're using the tablets for. Standard dosages are as follows:
- Osteoarthritis: 50mg taken up to three times daily.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: 50mg taken up to three times daily.
- Acute Pain: 50mg taken up to three times daily if needed.
Do not take more than 150mg (three 50mg tablets) in 24 hours.
When to Avoid Using Diclofenac Sodium Tablets?
As a powerful NSAID, there are some situations in which you should avoid using Diclofenac. These include:
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Do not take Diclofenac if you have heart failure, established heart disease (such as angina or a previous heart attack), problems with the blood circulation in your legs (peripheral arterial disease), or if you have had a stroke or mini-stroke (TIA). If you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or smoking, your prescriber will consider carefully whether it is right for you. Diclofenac may slightly increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially at higher doses (150mg a day) and with long-term use.
- Gastrointestinal Conditions: Do not take Diclofenac if you have, or have ever had, a stomach or duodenal (peptic) ulcer or bleeding in your digestive tract, or if you have had stomach or bowel problems after taking other NSAIDs.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disorders: Using NSAIDs with an inflammatory bowel disorder like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's can result in a relapse.
- Organ Damage: Do not take Diclofenac if you have severe kidney or liver failure. If you have milder kidney or liver problems, tell your prescriber before using it.
- Allergies: Do not take Diclofenac if you are allergic to diclofenac, or if aspirin, ibuprofen or any other NSAID has ever caused you an allergic reaction such as asthma, swelling of the face or mouth, a runny nose or a skin rash.
- Pregnancy: Do not take Diclofenac in the last 3 months of pregnancy.
Precautions for Diclofenac Sodium Tablets
If you're taking any medications, please speak to a healthcare professional before using Diclofenac. Do not take Diclofenac with other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, or with COX-2 inhibitors. Also tell us if you take aspirin, anticoagulants (blood thinners such as warfarin), SSRI antidepressants, oral steroids, diuretics (water tablets), medicines for high blood pressure or heart conditions such as ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers, digoxin, lithium, methotrexate, ciclosporin or tacrolimus, trimethoprim, quinolone antibiotics, medicines for diabetes, phenytoin or mifepristone.
Ingredients of Diclofenac Sodium Tablets
Diclofenac Sodium 50mg gastro-resistant tablets contain 50mg of the anti-inflammatory, which is responsible for pain relief. The tablets have a coating that stops them dissolving in the stomach.
It works by blocking prostaglandin synthesis.
Inactive Ingredients Include:
- Anhydrous Lactose
- Maize Starch
- Microcrystalline Cellulose
- Methylhydroxypropylcellulose Phthalate
- Talc
- Colloidal Silicon Dioxide
- Titanium Dioxide (E171)
- Magnesium Stearate
- Dibutyl Phthalate
- Sunset Yellow FCF (E110)
- Polyethylene Glycol 6000
- Ethanol Denatured with Acetone
These tablets contain lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking them. They also contain sunset yellow (E110), which may cause allergic reactions.
Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium Tablets
There is always a risk of side effects with all medications. Some of these can be quite mild and can subside over time. Others are more serious and should be reported to your GP right away if you experience any side effects. Please contact a member of our team if you are concerned about potential side effects when taking Diclofenac.
Some common side effects reported with diclofenac use include:
- Skin reactions - mild rash
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain, wind, or loss of appetite
- Headache
Less common side effects may occur while taking Diclofenac. If any of these happen to you, immediately seek medical advice:
- Blood in your vomit is a sign of stomach bleeding
- Severe indigestion, heartburn or stomach pain are signs of ulcers
- Skin turning yellow is a sign of liver problems
- Raised itchy skin rash, this is a sign of hives
- Breathlessness, fatigue, swollen legs or ankles, these are signs of heart failure
Very rarely, skin rashes can be made worse by sunlight (photosensitivity).
A serious allergic reaction can occur with Diclofenac. If you experience an unexplained skin rash, wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing, or swelling of your mouth, face, or lips, seek immediate emergency medical attention.
How long does it take this medication to work?
Diclofenac takes 20 to 30 minutes to work if you take it as tablets or capsules. It's best to take the lowest dose for the shortest period of time.
Is it safe to take long-term?
Diclofenac can cause an ulcer in your stomach if you take it for a long time or in high doses. It’s best to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
How does Diclofenac work?
Diclofenac sodium 50mg tablets are a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that works by reducing the level of hormones in your body that cause inflammation and pain.
How to take diclofenac tablets?
Take diclofenac tablets whole with a meal or a snack, don't take them without food, as it can irritate your stomach. Do not crush, break, or chew them.
Is diclofenac addictive?
No, diclofenac is not addictive.
Can I drink alcohol with it?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking Diclofenac. But drinking too much alcohol may irritate your stomach.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, you can eat and drink normally while taking Diclofenac.
What happens for a missed dose?
For a forgotten dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Can I take Diclofenac sodium tablets if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take diclofenac tablets in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as it could harm your unborn baby or cause problems at delivery. Earlier in pregnancy, only take it if your doctor advises it. There are usually safer alternatives, such as paracetamol.
Leaflets
Diclofenac Sodium Tablets Patient Information Leaflet
Before taking any medicines, regardless of whether they are over the counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
